Vietnam Tightens Regulations on Foreign Press Activities

The Vietnamese government has issued a new decree detailing press activities by foreign press agencies, representative missions, and foreign organizations within the country. This decree elaborates on the regulations for foreign media operating in Vietnam, specifying requirements for obtaining permits, the scope of activities, and related functions. The decree clarifies definitions for foreign press agencies, resident offices established in Vietnam, resident and non-resident correspondents, and press assistants. It also outlines the scope and procedures for "press-related activities" conducted by foreign representative missions and organizations, such as photo exhibitions, film screenings, and art exhibitions held within Vietnam. All foreign press agencies, representative missions, and organizations wishing to conduct press activities must obtain approval from the competent authorities designated by the decree and comply with Vietnam's current laws. In particular, online press activities must ensure compliance with Vietnam's laws on press, cybersecurity, and other relevant legal regulations. Activities must be coordinated with the People's Committee of the province/city where the press activities take place. Non-resident correspondents wishing to conduct press activities in Vietnam must submit an application dossier to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a diplomatic mission, a consular office, or a Vietnamese representative mission abroad at least 10 days before their expected date of entry into Vietnam. The application dossier includes a written request for press activities and a copy of the correspondent's press card. This new regulation is seen as part of the information control measures within Vietnam's one-party system, aiming for stricter management of foreign media activities. In recent years, Vietnam has experienced rapid economic growth and deepened its engagement with the international community, while simultaneously strengthening its control over domestic information flow. Foreign media reporting on geopolitically sensitive issues, such as relations with China and the South China Sea, has historically been subject to certain considerations. The promulgation of this decree enhances transparency and predictability for foreign media operating in Vietnam, while also raising concerns about potential restrictions on press freedom. The Vietnamese government has reiterated its policy of overseeing foreign media activities in the name of maintaining national security and social order.